Bright children's eyes: Auxiliary bishop gives gifts to Freising's offspring!

Bright children's eyes: Auxiliary bishop gives gifts to Freising's offspring!

On December 7, 2025, Auxiliary Bishop Wolfgang Bischof thrilled over 100 children in the Diocesan Museum (Dimu) in Freising with a cheerful St. Nicholas campaign. Bishop didn't hesitate to present the little guests with sweet gifts, including the popular gingerbread Santa Clauses, which brought big smiles. At this entertaining event, organized by the Stadtheimatpflege, Bishop also answered children's questions about the holiness of bishops. His humorous manner was well received by the audience, while the listeners sang Advent songs, accompanied by the brass ensemble from the Freising Music School.

Of course, an exciting story was not missing at this Christmas party: Stephan Kaupe, art educator and community speaker, read the popular children's book “There's a knock at Wanja's in the night”. The little listeners were enthusiastic and were actively encouraged to participate. This successful event once again underlined the committed togetherness in Freising during the Advent season.

Traditions in Advent

Advent is not only a time of anticipation, but also a time in which old traditions are kept alive. In Bavaria, St. Nicholas was the central figure of the Christmas season for a long time, before Santa Claus and the Christ Child and their respective customs became more important. Numerous traditions surrounding St. Nicholas emerged in the 14th and 15th centuries, although in the modern Christmas season the commercialization is obvious. Many people buy Christmas items in the fall, while Christmas trees are increasingly being put up earlier - often after November 1st. Historically, the custom of the Christmas tree only became popular in Bavaria in the 19th century.

St. Nicholas customs have changed over the years, but the need for community and tradition remains strong. It is therefore not surprising that the upcoming celebrations in 2024, which will celebrate the 1300th anniversary of the arrival of Saint Korbinian in Freising, are also generating great anticipation. As part of this festival year, the “1300 Years of Korbinian” anniversary beer, a naturally cloudy light beer from the Bavarian State Brewery Weihenstephan, will be brewed. The premiere took place in November 2023 and was met with much applause.

A celebration for everyone

This special beer, which promises a full-bodied taste and a fine hop flower, symbolizes community and a rich tradition of Bavarian brewing. Brewed according to the Purity Law of 1516, it will be served at the big parade in September 2024, which will certainly ensure happy days in Freising. The past year was marked not only by St. Nicholas, but also by the upcoming anniversary, which celebrates the long history and culture of the region.

However you celebrate Advent, one thing remains certain: the combination of tradition, community and joy is very important in Freising. Further insights into the Christmas season and its customs are offered here South German newspaper.

With this in mind, we wish everyone a peaceful Advent season and lots of joy in the community! For more information about the upcoming anniversary and the special beer, please refer to the Anniversary beer website.

Christmas can be so cozy in Freising!